Analysis: Condemnation of Israeli assault complicates relations with U.S.

attention is likely to fall on the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, which has faced an Israeli blockade since the Hamas militant group seized power three years ago. Although the Obama administration has pressed quietly for less onerous restrictions on trade, it has not questioned Israeli policies.

Malley said U.S. officials have told him that the situation in Gaza “is very high on Obama’s agenda.” Obama highlighted Gaza in his Cairo speech a year ago, saying, “Just as it devastates Palestinian families, the continuing humanitarian crisis in Gaza does not serve Israel’s security.”